Effect of acute heat exposure on triglyceride transfer to the preovulatory follicles of the laying fowl (Gallus domesticus).

1. The effect of acute heat exposure on triglyceride (TG) transfer to preovulatory follicles was studied in the laying fowl. 2. Heat exposure of laying fowl resulted in a 1.1 degree C rise in body temperature, a 10-fold increase in respiration frequency and mild hypocapnia and hypoxaemia. 3. Plasma and follicular tissue TG concentrations were not significantly affected by heat exposure, but plasma TG specific radioactivity decreased significantly and was negatively correlated with body temperature. 4. The transfer rate of TG to the preovulatory follicles was not affected significantly by hyperthermia. 5. We conclude that nutrient supply to the developing follicles is not compromised in acutely heat-exposed laying fowl.